Goal 15: Life on land

United Purpose helps communities to take care of and respect the land, by helping people to access a sustainable income we help to reduce negative impacts on the environment such as deforestation and desertification.

Casamance, on the border of Gambia and Senegal, is a region hugely reliant on agriculture and forest resources. United Purpose helps communities to exercise their right over forest land, bringing villagers together to develop rules for the entry and use of the forest, form a Community Forest Committee and help co-ordinate useful activities (eg firebreaks, replanting). This prevents illegal logging and stops people from outside of the region exploiting the natural riches. It allows the forest to replenish and provide sustainable fruit, nuts and medicine to eat, drink and sell.